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At Dalian American International School, our dedicated math teachers design tailored academic pathways that empower every student to thrive – whether they're future engineers or budding artists. In our secondary school program, this approach helps students grow academically in mathematics while developing the confidence to tackle challenges independently.
Our school provides a robust mathematics curriculum for students from Grade 8 to 10, featuring integrated Math 1, 2, and 3. This structure encompasses essential high school subjects such as algebra covering all the basic functions including linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions, along with Euclidean geometry, statistics, and probability. This curriculum aligns with the content taught in Chinese public schools.
Mr. Nuevas' math classroom
Beginning in Grade 11, our students embark on diverse mathematical paths tailored to their strengths and intended college majors. Those who excel in mathematics are often encouraged to pursue Advanced Placement (AP) courses, such as AP Precalculus or AP Statistics. Students demonstrating proficiency in AP Precalculus may advance to AP Calculus AB or BC in their senior year. Conversely, students who are less enthusiastic about math can opt for regular Precalculus and Transition to College Math, specifically designed for college-bound students in non-math-centric majors. This unique pathway cultivates a love for learning, allowing students to explore their academic interests deeply.
The most significant difference between our school's approach and that of public schools lies in the personalized education model. Unlike public schools, where every student follows the same curriculum, we believe in tailoring the educational experience to align with each student's interests, strengths, and future aspirations. This individualized pathway allows exceptionally skilled students to advance rapidly; for instance, we have recognized instances of 10th graders taking AP Calculus BC and completing all AP math courses by their junior year, setting them up to tackle college-level courses such as Multivariables Calculus and Linear Algebra as high school seniors.
Dr. Liu's math classroom
Moreover, students who prefer to focus on subjects outside of mathematics, such as art or literature, are not hindered by a rigid curriculum. They can pursue relevant math classes that provide essential skills without the pressure of succeeding in higher-level math courses that may not align with their interests or career paths. This flexibility significantly enhances the overall educational experience, fostering a more inclusive environment for all students.
Regardless of whether students are engaged in Core Standards-based courses like Integrated Math 1-3 or rigorous AP courses, our evaluation methods emphasize growth and understanding rather than competition or grading absolutes. Our educational philosophy steers clear of the rote memorization and repetitive training found in traditional public-school systems, which often aim to prepare students for standardized tests like Gaokao. Instead, our assessments are designed to reinforce learning, ensuring that students are genuinely grasping the material.
Courses such as AP Calculus BC, while rigorous, focus on clarity and the mastery of essential skills, eliminating traps and tricks that could confuse learners. We advocate for deep understanding over memorization; students are encouraged to grasp the fundamental logic behind theorems and concepts rather than simply recalling facts. Developing deductive reasoning skills and nurturing a spirit of inquiry are paramount in our teaching philosophy.
Dr. Libingi's math classroom
We believe that fostering a love for mathematics hinges upon encouraging curiosity and critical thinking. By prompting students to question what they learn and explore concepts thoroughly, we create an environment where learning math is not merely about passing tests but about enjoying the journey of discovery.
At Dalian American International School, students don't just study math – they live it. Whether preparing for competitions or embracing the challenge of problem-solving, our learners bring curiosity, dedication, and a growth mindset to every equation. Here, two outstanding secondary students – both participants in the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), a prestigious competition for top-performing math students – share how mathematics has shaped their thinking and inspired their academic journeys:
Amy S., Grade 11: "I like math because it challenges me to think logically and solve problems. When I study, I focus on understanding the concepts first and then practice a lot of problems. Even when it’s difficult, I enjoy the process of working through mistakes and improving."
Gavin Z., Grade 9: "To succeed in math competitions, focus on building a strong foundation in core concepts and practice regularly. Solve problems of varying difficulty to improve problem-solving speed and intuition, and learn from mistakes. Master key techniques like pattern recognition and logical reasoning, and manage your time efficiently during competitions. Consistency, persistence, and a passion for learning are essential to achieving great results."
But at DAIS, math isn't confined to textbooks or academic competitions – events like Pi Day show how learning can be joyful, creative, and community-driven, bringing mathematics to life.
This year's Pi Day at Dalian American International School was more than just a celebration of 3.14; it was a celebration of pure math madness. The teachers might still be finding shaving cream in their hair. Imagine a scenario where classrooms, typically filled with equations and quiet concentration, suddenly burst into laughter as students from 6th to 12th grade competed in games such as Jeopardy, Scavenger Hunts, Bingo, and a Rubik's Cube showdown, causing everyone's fingers to spin faster than a protractor.
The math department took a bold approach, transforming standard lessons into an immersive math-themed carnival. From sixth graders to seniors, they were required to decode scavenger hunt riddles, and solving Bingo cards had them yelling "BINGO!" as if they had won the lottery. As for the Rubik's Cube challenge, let's just say some students discovered their hands could move faster than their TikTok scrolls.
Pie throwing on Pi Day
But the real drama? The grand prize! Winners didn't just score pizza –they got to "pie" their teachers with shaving cream pies. You've never seen a group of teens strategize so hard over quadratic equations until pie-throwing rights were on the line. Behind the chaos, the Sea Dragon Ambassadors and National Honor Society kids were the glue holding it all together. Think of them as math fairy godparents: calming panicked 7th graders mid-Bingo meltdown, whispering Rubik's Cube hacks, and somehow keeping the shaving cream stocked. One ambassador joked, "I've learned two things today: teamwork solves everything, and teachers never smelled this good with pie on their faces."
For the third consecutive year, Mr. Ng's math classroom became a global arena during the annual Gauss Contest, hosted by the University of Waterloo's Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC). Students joined over 300,000 peers from 86 countries, tackling its renowned logic-driven challenges.
A passionate advocate for mathematical excellence, Mr. Ng watched his students engage with problems designed to test thinking rather than memorization. Beyond competition, the event fostered new friendships, with students sharing strategies and debating solutions. "Every year, someone surprises themselves," Mr. Ng noted, recalling students who exceeded expectations.
Assistant Principal Ms. Essack (left) and Mr. Ng presenting awards
At Dalian American International School and Dalian Huamei School, math is more than numbers – it's a journey of curiosity, challenge, and discovery. With dedicated teachers and diverse opportunities, every student is supported to grow, explore, and succeed.
Written by: Dr. Xiaoming Liu
AP Calculus, AP Statistics, AP Physics Teacher
Mr. Mike Ng
Mathematics Department Head
